October 13, 2011

Arlington Celebrates National Friends of Libraries Week

The Arlington Public Library will spend the week of Oct. 16 to 22 celebrating their Friends of the Library group as part of National Friends of Libraries Week.

The Friends of the Arlington Public Library was established in 1987 and has contributed, to date, $708,074 to the Arlington library system. Currently, over 200 community members contribute annually to the Friends group. Many of these contributors also actively volunteer time to assist the group with fundraising efforts that include the semi-annual book sales and Book & Author Luncheons.

“The library has always played such an important role in my life and in my family’s life,” said Friends president Shirley McVay. “I truly enjoy being able to give something back – being an active member of this group is fun!”

Celebration activities include special children’s programs throughout the week based on the theme of friendship, and “love letters” to the Friends group by library staff will be posted in Arlington libraries for visitors to enjoy.

Director of Libraries Cary Siegfried said, “The funds the Friends raise definitely puts icing on the cake. I think most patrons would be surprised to learn how many of the services and programs they enjoy are supported by the Friends.”

Other officers of the Friends group include Mary Johnson, Sue Crowley, Dorothy Rencurrel, Nancy Hester, and Barbara Noble. Please contact the Friends at 817-548-9768 or www.fapl.org to find out how to become a member.